BACHELOR THESIS.

OVERVIEW OF SYSTEMS IN TIMBER ENGINEERING.

USE OF CROSS-LAMINATED TIMBER WITH TWO SPECIFIC EXAMPLES.
In fulfilment of the requirements for the degree
Of Bachelor of Building Construction Science and Technology (UPC)

Submitted at:

FH JOANNEUM
Construction Design and Economics.

Submitted by:

Xavier Sucarrats Olius

Supervisors:

Advisor: DI Dr. Markus Wallner-Novak

Graz, January 2015

 I

CONTENTS

I. TABLE OF CONTENTS.
II. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS.
III. ABSTRACT.
IV. LIST OF FIGURES.

1. TIMBER CONSTRUCTION SYSTEMS.

INTRODUCTION. ……………………………………………………………………..... 1-3

1.1 LOG CONSTRUCTION. ……………………………………………………………… 4-5
1.2 TIMBER-FRAME CONSTRUCTION. …………………………………........................... 6-7
1.3 BALLOON-FRAME, PLATFORM-FRAME CONSTRUCITON. ………………………… 8
1.4 PANEL CONSTRUCTION. ……………………………………………………………… 9-10
1.5 FRAME (SKELETON) CONSTRUCTION. …………………………………………... 11-13
1.6 SOLID TIMBER CONSTRUCTION. ……………………………………………………. 14-16
1.6.1 SOLID CROSS-SECTIONS. …………………………………………………..... 15
1.6.2 COMPOUND CROS-SECTIONS. …………………………………………... 16

2. CROSS-LAMINATED TIMBER (CLT).

INTRODUCTION. ……………………………………………………………………….. 17
2.1 INTRODUCTION TO CROSS-LAMINATED TIMBER (KLH). ………………………… 18-21
2.1.1 KLH MASSIVHOLZ GmbH. …………………………………………………….. 19
2.1.2 CLT SOLID WOOD PANELS (KLH). …………………………………………… 20-21
2.2 FABRICATION OF CLT PRODUCT (KLH). …………………………………………… 21-22
2.3 CONNECTION IN CLT BUILDINGS (KLH). …………………………………………… 23-26
2.3.1 DETAILS IN THE CONNECTIONS IN CLT ASSEMBLIES. ………………. 23-26
2.4 BUILDING ENCLOSURE FOR CLT ASSEMBLIES. …………………………………. 27-29
2.4.1 AIR TIGHTNESS. ……………………………………………………………… 27-28
2.4.2 PROTECTION AGAINST MOISTURE. …………………………………………… 28
2.4.3 HEAT INSULATION. ……………………………………………………………… 29
2.5 SOUND INSULATION IN CLT ASSEMBLIES. …………………………………………… 29-30
2.6 FIRE PERFORMANCE IN CLT ASSEMBLIES. …………………………………………… 31
2.7 LIFTING AND HANDLING. ……………………………………………………………… 31-32

3. DOCUMENTATION OF CLT BUILDINGS.

INTRODUCTION ……………………………………………………………………………….... 33
3.1 HOUSE ‘C’: “CERNY”. ……………………………………………………………… 34
3.2 HOUSE ‘P’: “PYRAMIDS IN ALMERE”. …………………………………………… 35

BLUEPRINTS.

1C. to 24C.
1P. to 19P.

V. CONCLUSION.
VI. REFERENCES.
 II

ACKNOWLEDMENTS

First of all I would like to thank you both organizations FH Joanneum and UPC that made it
possible for me to participate in this Erasmus programme. Being an exchange student in
Austria was a wonderful experience I will never forget.

Make a special thanks to my supervisor, Mr. Wallner-Novak, who gave me some tips, helped
me with the quality improvement of this paper, supported and assisted me during the
development of this Thesis.
 III

ABSTRACT

“Systems in timber engineering. Use of Cross laminated timber with two concrete examples”
is my Final Project of Grade.

This project summarizes the most common timber systems used over time. It studies
thoroughly the wood product “Cross laminated timber”, which is a relatively new wood
product that was first introduced in the 1990’s in Austria and has gained popularity in
residential and non-residential buildings in many European countries and around the world in
the recent past. Two specific projects of two existing single-family houses are designed with
CLT solid wood panels.

This paper is divided into three parts:

In the first part an overview of the construction systems in timber construction is given. The
systems are introduced, their characteristics and loadbearing performance are explained in a
superficial way.

The second part deals with Cross laminated timber. In this chapter, an extensive study of this
wood system is carried out. X-LAM, its abbreviation, is introduced in many general aspects
as a product. All the specific and technic information which is shown is, in particular, form the
Austrian firm “KLH Massivholz Gmbh”, which I had the pleasure and honour to visit.

And in the final third part, two projects of two single-family houses are shown. Starting from a
basic plan of the house, which have been obtained from two architects with which I’m truly
grateful for their help, X-LAM system is used to design the house. Floor plans, sections,
details and concrete component connections are designed.
 IV

LIST OF FIGURES.

Figure 1: Overview of walls, suspended floors and roof which can be used in
combination to form a complete system. Illustration from the book “Systems in
Timber Engineering, Josef Kolb”.
Figure 2: Panel construction/Solid timber construction. Axonometric projection.
Figure 3: Frame construction axonometric projection. Axonometric projection.
Figure 4: Small units based on a modular dimension. Axonometric projection.
Figure 5: Elements based on a modular dimension. Axonometric projection.
Figure 6: Elements with room dimensions. Axonometric projection.
Figure 7: Room modules. Axonometric projection.
Figure 8: Log construction. Axonometric projection.
Figure 9: Types of milled logs: Swedish Cope logs and full-round logs.
Figure 10: Types of milled logs: traditional log wall with internal thermal insulation.
Figure 11: Types of milled logs: Square logs and prefabricated log walls.
Figure 12: Corner styles: Large diameter round logs are laid one over another.
Figure 13: Corner styles: Dovetail corner variant 1.
Figure 14: Corner styles: Dovetail corner variant 2.
Figure 15: Corner styles: another corner solution.
Figure 16: Corner styles: another corner solution.
Figure 17: Timber-Frame construction. Axonometric projection.
Figure 18: Wood joints in timber-frame construction.
Figure 19: Detached house with all the structure visible in construction phase.
Figure 20: Detached house erected with the traditional way of timber-frame with the
visible external load-bearing structure
Figure 21: Balloon-Frame, Platform-Frame construction. Axonometric projection.
Figure 22: Balloon-Frame construction. Axonometric projection.
Figure 23: Platform-Frame construction. Axonometric projection.
Figure 24: Panel construction. Axonometric projection.
Figure 25: Manufacturing of elements in a factory unit.
Figure 26: Wall being lifted and assembled.
Figure 27: Exploded view showing individual structural elements. Axonometric projection.
Figure 28: Exploded view showing the individual components of a wall. Axonometric
projection.
 V

CONCLUTION

In timber construction the novel and advantageous solutions have been defined in the
technical field of the structure and the disposition of the layers of the building envelope.
Likewise, the different load-bearing systems and therefore the proper timber constructing
systems have had a recognizably re-orientation.
Experienced master builders have constructed during the history with traditional systems,
just like log and timber-frame systems, or as balloon- and platform-frame construction. But
this systems have lost the meaning long time ago and this traditional systems are used in
only some remote regions. Although the building professionals must understand the
architectural traditions in building, they have to build with timber in a new and modern way.

Cross-laminated timber is one of the most relatively newest timber constructing systems.
Since it is a heavy construction product, the green building movement, the better efficiencies
and product approvals, it has been gaining popularity in residential and non-residential
buildings in many European countries.
Learning about this system in Austria and having the opportunity to visit the Austrian firm
(KLH Massivholz Gmbh) which constructs X-LAM panels has been one of the most
worthwhile things that I have had the chance to do while writing the thesis.

The most exciting and remarkable part of this thesis has been to try to understand the X-LAM
product by designing two existing houses with X-LAM panels.

In short, it has been interesting and gratifying to write this thesis and to learn about timber
construction systems in general and Cross-laminated timber in particular.
 VI

REFERENCES

Books
[1] Systems in timber engineering: loadbearing structures and component layers / Josef Kolb.
Ed by: Lignum, Holzwirtschaft Schweiz, Zurich; DGfH German Society of Wood Research
,Munich. – Basel; [u.a.] : Birkhäuser , 2008. 319 pages.
[2] Holzbau atlas: Birkhäuser edition detail / Thomas Herzog; Julius Natterer; Roland
Schweitzer; Michael Volz; Wolfgang Winter / fourth Edition / Basel ,Schweiz / Birkhäuser,
2003. 375 pages.
[3] Holzbau: details, produkte, besipiele; Edtion detail / Theodor Hugues; Ludwig Steiger;
Johann Weber / fourth Edition / München / Inst. für Internat. Architektur-Dokumentation,
2012. 11pages.
[4] Architektur konstruieren: vom Rohmaterial zum Bauwerk; ein Handbuch / Andrea
Deplazes (Hrsg.) / Basel / Birkhäuser, 2005. 512 pages

Brochures
[1] CLT Handbook: cross-laminated timber / edited by Erol Karacabeyli, Brad Douglas. – U.S.
ed / Co-published by U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Forest Products
Laboratory, Binational Doftwood Lumber Council (BSLC)
[2] Bauen mit Brettsperrholz: Tragende Massivholzelemente für Wand, Decke und Dach /
Studiengemeinschaft Holzleimbau e.V./ April 2010
[3] Brettstapelbauweise / DrAng. Hartmut Werner Ingenieurbüro Holzbau im Bruderverlag,
Karlsruhe / Arbeitsgemeinschaft Holz e.V.
[4] Leitdetailkatalog Holzbau 2003 / Insitut für hochbau – und industriebau / TUGraz /
Vorstand: Professor Horst Gamerith.

Webpages
http://www.klh.at
http://www.dataholz.com
http://www.xlam.co.nz/
http://www.crosslamtimber.com.au
http://www.binderholz-bausysteme.com
http://www.mm-holz.com
http://www. www.storaenso.com/buildingandliving
TITEL 1

1 TIMBER CONSTRUCTION SYSTEMS.

INTRODUCTION.

Overview of the construction systems in timber construction.

In timber construction the novel and advantageous solutions have been defined in the
technical field of the structure and the disposition of the layers of the building envelope.
Likewise, the different load-bearing systems and therefore the proper timber constructing
systems have had a recognizably re-orientation.

The most common systems are:

-Log construction.
-Timber-frame construction.
-Balloon-Frame, Platform-Frame.
-Panel construction.
-Frame (skeleton) construction.
-Solid timber construction.

These systems can be schematized also in terms of structure:

-Rib construction: Timber-frame, Balloon/Platform and Panel construction.
-Framework construction: Frame construction
-Massive construction: Log and Solid timber construction

The timber construction systems currently used are mainly dealt with:
-Panel construction.
-Frame (skeleton) construction.
-Solid timber construction.

Experienced master builders have constructed during the history with traditional systems,
just like log and timber-frame systems, or as balloon- and platform-frame construction. But
this systems have lost the meaning long time ago and this traditional systems are used in
only some remote regions. Although the building professionals must understand the
architectural traditions in building, they have to build with timber in a new and modern way.
TITEL 2

Combination of systems:

All of the systems are built with three individual components: walls, suspended floors and
roofs. Overall systems are constructed if the components are built with the same type of
system. However, this elements can be combined and a structure which has different types
of systems in his components can be erected. The only requirements are that the
components assist the building structure all together and that any damage shows up from the
building structure owing to the combination of different systems. The combination of systems
can optimize building structure.
This next table shows the building component systems which in combination can form a
complete system.

Figure 1: Overview of walls, suspended floors and roof which can be used in combination to form a complete
system. Illustration from the book “Systems in Timber Engineering, Josef Kolb”.
TITEL 3

Fabrication process in terms of systems:

All of these timber construction systems are solved with prefabrication. Walls, suspended
floors and roofs, formed by individual parts and layers, are assembled in factory units.
There are three prefabricated systems which maximize the prefabricated work:
Figure 2-Panel construction and Solid timber construction: the loadbearing structure is
combined with the enclosing elements.
Figure 3-Frame construction: the loadbearing structure and the enclosing elements are
separated. Firstly the structure is erected, secondly the enclosing elements are added to the
loadbearing structure. This prefabricated system is used for larger structures.

Figure 2. Figure 3.

Fabrication process in terms of building principles:

-Small units based on a modular dimension: walls are
made of small timber units that are piled up together being
this way at the same time loadbearing and enclosing
elements.
Figure 4.
-Elements based on a modular dimension: elements are
one-storey-high on a modular dimension.

Figure 5.

-Elements with room dimensions: elements are one-

storey-high on a room dimension.

Figure 7. Figure 6.
-Room modules: completely in a prefabricated way
on a room dimension. All elements included (walls,
suspended floors and roofs). Then the room is
placed where it is supposed to be located.
TITEL 4

1.1 LOG CONSTRUCTION

Traditional log construction belongs to a particular

environment such as mountainous regions, and it
requires specialists who are in the position of being
able to design and construct such buildings properly.
Log construction was the most common building
technique in large regions of Russia and Scandinavia,
where houses, palaces, towers and churches are
constructed with log construction. In the mountainous
regions of Central Europe, mainly in the Alps, log
construction has played an important role in housing
for the local residents.
Figure 8.
Characteristics:

In earlier times the building envelope was a single layer. It gave the clad, enclose and
loadbearing function to the element. Old but well preserved buildings, even multi-storey
buildings, can prove the possibilities of this system.
Nowadays a higher level of insulation and comfort is demanded, and other layers are
disposed in the inside part of the wall, just like in masonry or concrete buildings.
As mentioned right above, log constructions can be constructed nowadays with the insulation
and comfort that it is demanded. But because of the extremely hard work, meticulous
selection of the wood, high timber consumption, but above all, the constructional an
economic reasons, log construction, when multi-storey log construction buildings even more,
is practically a system of the past.

Types of milled logs:

Milled log buildings tool different profiles. The following

pictures show the composition of a wall from exterior (left) to
the interior (right):

-1.-Swedish Cope logs: round inside and out, with a half-

moon-shape groove on the bottom.
-2.-Full-round logs: fully round insight and out.
Figure 9.
TITEL 5

-3- Higher level of insulation and comfort is demanded, and

other layers are disposed in the inside part of the wall. It is a
traditional log wall with internal thermal insulation. The proper
log wall (loadbearing structure), thermal insulation and a vapour
barrier are disposed in the wall.

Figure 11

Figure 10.
-4/5.-Square logs: flat inside and out.
-6- Walls can be prefabricated also with log
construction.

Figure 12
Corner styles:
-1.- It is the popular corner style used in the
Scandinavian countries. Large diameter round logs are
laid one over another. If the corner is well executed, it is
totally protected against water and any air infiltration.

-2.- The Dovetail corner makes a tight and interlocking corner. It is most suited to traditional
slab side log or timber style homes. There are a lot of variants.

Figure Figure
13. 14.

-3.- There are many other corner solutions. The following examples are some of them.

Figure Figure
15. 16.
TITEL 6

1.2 TIMBER-FRAME CONSTRUCTION

The traditional way of timber-frame with the visible

external load-bearing structure is rarely used any more.
The traditional arrangements with diagonal braces have
been replaced for new wood-based products, board
materials and methods of fabrication much more
economic and effective when constructing.
In whatever manner, carpenters still now know how to
build with struts and angle braces like former times.
Timber-frame structures can turn out to be still a good
solution when constructing simple buildings of one or
two storeys for agricultural purposes for example.
Timber-frame construction can be naturally an
economic building system for previously mentioned
uses, if computer-controlled factory units, accurate
modern machines and novel manners of drying wood
are used.
Figure 17.
Characteristics:

Timber-frame construction is erected storey-by-storey. The assembly and erection are simple
to execute. The framework that has been designed to withstand the weight of the building
can be clad from the inside part and the outside usually stays visible, although both sides
can be clad. Wooden joints are used, such as mortise and tenon, slots for inserting one piece
of wood into another (dado) and half divided joints.
Old but well preserved
buildings, even multi-storey
buildings, can prove the
possibilities of this system.

Figure 18: Timber-frame construction

may be the only system which uses
wood joints.
TITEL 7

Loadbearing behaviour:

Tiber-frame walls begin with a sole plate, which joins the wall to the slab in the found floor
made out of concrete.
The vertical posts direct forces vertically to the ground. Posts form the jambs to doors and
windows. The separation between the posts depends on the placement of the doors and
windows. Structural calculations have to be carried out, naturally to prevent posts to bend
and collapse.
Inclined posts are called braces. They give stiffness and transfer horizontal forces to the
supports.
Horizontal rails are not there for structural purposes. They give stiffness, withstand the
cladding and work as lintels and sills for windows and doors.
Head plates closes the wall. They hold the posts and braces in position, giving stability and
stiffness to the wall. It gives also support for floor joists and roof beams. They carry the loads
and forces from the upper floors direct to the posts.

Figure 19: Detached house with all the

structure visible in construction phase.
(www.stlouishousepaintingcontractor.com)

Figure 20: Detached house erected with the

traditional way of timber-frame with the visible
external load-bearing structure.
(www.blackandwhitehouses.co.uk)
TITEL 8

1.3 BALLOON-FRAME, PLATFORM-FRAME

In the medium of the nineteenth century, when

United States was in complete developing and
quickly erections of buildings were demanded,
Balloon Frame system appeared in scene. With
its rapid and large-scale manufacturing, this
system could supply this huge demand.
Although the production was fast, the erection
phase was long, and still it is due to the short
extent of prefabrication.
Some decades later it arrived to Europe but it
wasn’t successful. Not until a few decades ago, a further development of this system was
spread out in Europe, in ways of condition and quality requirements. The name is timber
Stud Construction.
Because of the short production dimension but hard and long work when settling and
erecting the building, consideration of protection against the weather when erecting the
building, and the nowadays condition and quality requirements, panel construction has
superseded in Europe balloon- and platform-frame construction.

Characteristics:

Balloon frame system is based in a structure of timber ribs. The

timber posts spacing is small. The stiffness of the structure is
given by planks or boards, which are nailed to the timber posts.
Balloon-frame and Platform-frame constructions are erected in a
slightly different way.

Figure 22: Balloon frame.

When Balloon-frame system, the ribs or posts don’t stop in

between floors and continue for two or more floors. Soul and
head plates are uncharged to close the structure. And
suspended floors are made out of timber joists.
When Platform-frame, a platform is laid in between storeys.

Figure 23: Platform frame.

TITEL 9

1.4 PANEL CONSTRUCTION

Panel construction structure that withstands the

weight of the building is essentially loadbearing
girders or ribs of squared section and a roof that
makes stable the supports. The use of compound
solid sections will give the right dimension stability.
The elemental concept of panel construction is
connected with prefabrication in the factory. Every
wall, floor and roof is planned and produced as
elements to adapt different building uses.
Thermal insulation will be given by boards made out
of mineral-fibre, cellulose fibres and wood fibreboards.

Figure 24.
Characteristics:

As usual, the structure is planned, designed, produced and erected storey by storey.
When manufacturing the elements, a factory unit in good conditions with computer-controlled
materials-holding, certainly can offer a precise and correct fabrication. Nowadays physical
size and weight of the building elements would be no more a problem when designing with
panel construction, thanks to appropriate machines and powerful lifting equipment that helps
when lifting, transporting and erecting this building elements. But the conditions when
transporting this elements by road make engineers optimize the prefabricated elements
dimensions. In terms of time, erection of the building can be carried out in two days when
talking about a second-storey detached house.

Figure 26: Wall being lifted and assembled.

Figure 25: Manufacturing of elements in a factory unit. (www.orlando-roofing-companies-roofing-
(www.edmontonjournal.com/cms/binary/8212376.jpg) Orlando-fl-roofing-contractor.com/2012/08/)
TITEL 10

Loadbearing behaviour:

In a simple way, walls made out of vertical ribs give

stiffness to the structure when carrying the vertical loads
from the roof and suspended floors to the foundation.
So, starting from below, soul plates are normally fixed to
concrete foundations and externals walls are attached to
the concrete slabs. If a soul plate is not laid on top of the
concrete slab, not normal neither recommended, elements
are fixed directly to the concrete ground slab with steel
angles. The anchorage will be achieved with perforated
sheet metal strap and fasteners (expanding, heavy-duty or
bolt anchors). The protection against moisture will be given
with a damp-proof course placed between the concrete and
timber.
Prefabricated external and internal walls can be erected
storey by storey after the soul plate is been positioned.
Because of the reasonable size of the walls, the transport and lifting of the elements into
place must be achieved with appropriate machines and powerful lifting equipment.
Suspended floors and roofs also require them.
To connect a storey to the storey below, they will be anchored with perforated sheet metal
and some type of fasteners.

Figure 28: Exploded view showing the individual components of a wall.

TITEL 11

1.5 FRAME (SKELETON) CONSTRUCTION

Frame construction is one of the oldest

structural systems. It’s a construction
system composed by columns, beams
and bracing elements. It offers quite
large distance between columns and
separates clearly the loadbearing frame
and the enclosing walls. The timber
frame, without any problem, can be
unprotected on the inside or on the
outside, or clad on both sides.
Before designing and building a frame structure, knowing the type of building which it is
planned to erect is basic. For example: the size of the building and rooms, façade design,
usual formats of elements and of sheathing and cladding materials, standard dimension of
doors and windows, etc., among other considerations. When knowing the conditions, then
horizontal and vertical grid will be found out as the best option for frame structures.

Figure 30: Axonometric view of a structure of a building with the grid.

TITEL 12

Loadbearing behaviour:

There are two types of structure in a frame construction building. The first one, and principal,
is made of big loadbearing columns (vertical) and beams (horizontal). Columns or beams can
be in solid glued laminated timber or in combination with steel or reinforced concrete. The
second structure is made of prefabricated walls, timber joist suspended floors and roofs. This
second structure resists the horizontal forces created by wind loads. As a result, the second
structure sends his loads to the first and main structure, which sends them together with his
proper loads directly to the foundations.
In both structures, diagonal steel bracing is a good option to transfer the horizontal and
vertical loads.
Walls don’t support any loads from suspended floors or roof. They are basically designed as
panel construction wall elements are designed, but as mentioned, they differ from them in not
being loadbearing elements. This permits to place large windows or glass facades.

Junctions:

There are different ways of joining columns and beams and different types of connection,
which will be mainly steel components. The election of the initial grid and principal structure
dimensions will help choose the correct frame construction form.

 Columns and compound beams.

The columns are in one part, the beams in two.

Figure 31.

Beams and continuous columns. 

The columns are in two parts, the beams in one.

Figure 32.
TITEL 13

Columns and oversailing beams.

The one-part beam bears on top of the column.

The secondary beams bear on the primary structure.

The secondary beams are connected with their upper

surfaces aligned with the primary structure.

Figure 33.

Beams and compound columns. 

The beams are connected to the continuous columns.

Figure 34.

Forked columns.

The main beam passes through the column. The

secondary beams bear on the primary structure.

Figure 35.
TITEL 14

1.6 SOLID TIMBER CONSTRUCTION

Solid timber constructions is made nowadays thanks

to factory-produced components. These components
are usually made of glued-, dowelled- or nailed
timber.
The loadbearing layer of the complete component,
which is a solid timber plate, is in the same plane of
the plate of the other layers.
Solid timber components absorb and save moisture
from the interior air and liberates it when the dry
period arrives.
The assembly is simple. It is erected storey by storey.
There is a requirement which dictate that a solid
timber component will be named as such, when at least 50% of the total component works
for the loadbearing structure.

Solid cross-sections and compound cross sections:

The main difference between these sections is the dimension they are manufactured in. In
solid cross-sections, the manufacturing is in large format planar elements, with plan or room
dimensions. In compound cross-sections, the manufacturing is small format planar elements,
with modular dimension, that when joined together, they create a plan or room dimension.

Solid cross-section.

Figure 37.

Compound cross-section.

Figure 38.
TITEL 15

1.6.1 Solid cross-sections

The planar solid timber wall, suspended floor or roof works as a loadbearing and enclosing
element.
In terms of thermal insulation, the thickness of the element depends on the thermal needs.
The thermal insulation will be disposed in a continue layer on the outside of the element,
eliminating the most existing thermal bridges.
The importance of the performance in terms of shrinkage and swelling in timber is high.
Cross-banded glued or dowelled systems offer a limited shrinkage and swelling due to the
cross-wise disposition of the layers. Therefore the stability is very good.

Loadbearing behaviour:

The stability of the building is ensured by structural actions of solid plates which are in the
same structural plane. The vertical and horizontal loads are carried by way of solid-timber-
plate elements from up the roof until down to the foundations.

Most common systems, large-format planar elements:

-Cross-laminated timber (CLT): Is a type of
structural timber product comprising a number of layers
of dimensioned timber bonded together with durable,
moisture-resistant structural adhesives.
Figure 39.
-Edge-fixed timber: large wooden
boards fixed to each other. The
laminations are interconnected to each
other with nails or hardwood dowels.

Figure 40. Figure 41.

-Cross banded and dowelled: Large wooden boards disposed

in several layers, cross-wide, and attached by means of
hardwood dowels.

Figure 42.

-Wood-based product: Pressed particleboards or OSB plies

used in large, storey-high wall elements.

Figure 43.
TITEL 16

1.6.2 Compound cross-sections

Elements joined by gluing ensure very good dimensional stability. In terms of thermal
insulation, the thickness of the element depends on the thermal needs. The thermal
insulation will be disposed in a continue layer on the outside of the element, eliminating the
most existing thermal bridges.
As in the solid cross-sections, cross-banded glued or dowelled elements offer a limited
shrinkage and swelling due to the cross-wise disposition of the layers. Therefore the stability
is very good.

Loadbearing behaviour:

When the individual elements are joined, they act as an independent planar section wall. The
loads are transferred via these plates (the elements joined together) direct to the
foundations.

Most common systems:

-Cross-banded spaced plies: Elements which are made from cross-banded glued boards.
They can work, when joined together, as walls, suspended floors and roofs. The dimension
stability is very good.

Figure Figure
44. 45.

-Modular building block system: Just as masonry,

prefabricated small handy-sized modules, but
made out of solid timber. Made for walls, external
and internal ones

Figure 46.

-Tongue and groove timber pranks.

Figure 47.
TITEL 17

2 CROSS-LAMINATED TIMBER (CLT)

INTRODUCTION

In this chapter, cross-laminated timber is introduced in many general aspects as a product.

The CLT specific information which is shown in this chapter is, in particular, from the Austrian
firm “KLH Massivholz Gmbh”, which I had the pleasure and honour to visit.

The chapter is divided in several parts:

The first part introduces and defines the CLT in a very general form.
The second part is about the fabrication of the CLT product (KLH).
Third part talks about the connections in CLT buildings and shows some details with the
proper explanation (KLH).
Fourth, building enclosure for CLT assemblies is explained. Airtightness, heat insulation,
protection against moisture matters are briefly introduced.
In part five, the sound insulation of CLT assemblies. The terms airborne and impact sound
are introduced.
Sixth, the fire performance in CLT assemblies. Just a very brief introduction.
And seventh, ways and systems of lifting and handling of CLT elements.

Figure 48: View of a CLT staircase coming to the wall. (www.tilling.com.au/node/267)

TITEL 18

2.1 INTRODUCTION TO CROSS-LAMINATED TIMBER (KLH).

Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is a wood system of solid timber construction. It was first
introduced in the 1990’s in Austria. Since it is a heavy construction system, the green
building movement, the better efficiencies and product approvals, it has been gaining
popularity in residential and non-residential buildings in many European countries. Striking
buildings and other structures are built all around the world using CLT (Canada, USA,
Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Taiwan, etc.).
In Europe it has been proved that CLT construction can be competitive in single-family
buildings and multi-storey residential and non-residential constructions.

CLT advantages in general:

• Sustainable, environmentally friendly building material.
• Light-weight construction.
• Short erection time due to prefabrication.
• Buildings are ready for occupancy in a short time
• Extremely accurate shapes and openings.
• Combinable with many different materials (steel, glass, etc.).
• Allows for maximum architectural freedom.
• Excellent static properties.

Areas of application:
• Detached houses and apartment buildings.
• Multi-storey residential buildings.
• Public buildings.
• Hotels and restaurants.
• Old people’s homes.
• Schools and kindergartens.
• Office and administrative buildings.
• Event halls.
• Industrial and commercial buildings.
• Reconstructions and extensions.
• Bridges.
TITEL 19

2.1.1 KLH Massivholz GmbH.

There are lots of firms around Europe and the world that produce CLT
panels. As it has been explained in the abstract, the CLT specific
information which is shown in this project is in particular from the Austrian
firm “KLH Massivholz Gmbh”, which I had the pleasure and honour to visit.

KLH Massivholz Gmbh is a manufacturer of large-format glued laminated timber walls,

ceilings and roofing elements. KLH solid wood panels are used both as load-bearing,
reinforcing elements and non-load-bearing elements.
It is an international market-leading manufacturer, which has his markets in:
• Prime market in Europe: France, Austria, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Norway,
Sweden and Switzerland.
• Other European markets: Belgium, Netherlands, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia,
Slovenia, Spain and Portugal.
• International markets in development: Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and
Taiwan.

Overview of the corporate history:

• 1996 Product development.
• 1997 Establishment of the company.
• 1999 Opening of the current production plant in Katsch/Mur.
• 2005 Establishment of the subsidiary company „KLH UK Ltd.”.
• 2011 Beginning of internationalization.
• 2012/2013 Offner Group assumes sole ownership of KLH Massivholz GmbH.
• 2014 Investment CNC machine (1,5 Mio.) – increase of production capacity to 1 Mio. m²
resp. 125.000 m³.

Figure 49: Photograph from the main office building of KLH facilities in Frojach-Katsch (Murau), Austria.
TITEL 20

2.1.2 CLT solid wood panels (KLH).

KLH is the abbreviation for Kreuzlagenholz in German, which means Cross-laminated timber
(CLT). CLT is produced from layers of spruce wood which are arranged crosswise (normally
at 90 degrees) on top of each other and glued to each other with a pressing power of 0.6
N/mm2 to form large-sized solid wood elements.

As it is explained previous chapter (1.6.1 Solid cross-sections), the cross-wise arrangement

of the longitudinal and transverse layers reduces the swelling and shrinkage of the wood in
the plane of the panel. This gives an excellent dimensional stability.
Wood is dried down to a wood moisture of 12% (+/-2%) so as to eliminate any damage
(pests, fungi or insects).

KLH Product:
• Crosswise glued lamellas mainly in spruce.
• Large sized structural elements for walls, ceilings and roofs.
• Maximum dimensions 16.50 m by 2.95 m up to 0.50 m thick.
• Non-visible, industrial visible and domestic visible quality.
• 3, 5, 7 or even more layers, according to structural requirements.
• Production made to order.

KLH plates maximum size:

•Maximum length - 16.50 m
•Maximum width - 2.95 m
•Maximum thickness - 0.50 m
•Minimum production lengths - 8.25 m,
respectively in 10 cm increments up to the
maximum length.
•Produced widths - 2.40 / 2.50 / 2.73 / 2.95 m
/ On request 2.25 m
Figure 50: CLT panel. (www.timberfirst.files.
wordpress.com/2012/07/clt-image_mm-kaufmann.jpg)
Gluing:
The adhesive has to be in accordance with the EN 15425. It has to be approved for load-
bearing and non-load-bearing, and indoors and outdoors engineered wood components.
With KLH solid wood panels, solvent-free and formaldehyde-free PUR adhesive are used.
The glue is applied over the entire surface with an optimized amount of adhesive. A high-
quality level of adhesion is achieved with a high pressing power.
TITEL 21

Surfaces:
KLH solid wood panels are offered as standard in non-visible quality, industrial visible quality
and domestic visible quality.
• Non-visible quality in spruce: appropriate for load-bearing components.
• Industrial visible quality in spruce, single-sided: appropriate for industrial buildings with low
requirements on surfaces.
• Domestic visible quality in spruce, single-sided: appropriate for permanently visible surfaces
in residential buildings.

2.2 FABRICATION OF CLT PRODUCT (KLH).

In this section, the process of the manufacturing the CLT product is explained step by step.
The process is in particular the KLH one.

1-Primary lumber selection.

As explained in the last section, KLH solid wood panels are offered as standard in non-visible
quality, industrial visible quality and domestic visible quality.
So lumber stock is selected conforming to grade of CLT solid
wood panels.
In the production of KLH solid cross‐laminated timber
boards, wood will have a humidity of 12% (+/‐ 2%).
Therefore, the lumber packages are wrapped and stored in a
warehouse where the moisture content and temperature of
the lumbers are controlled thoroughly.
Figure 51.
2-Lumber grouping:
Basically in this step, all lumber with same engineered properties will be placed in the same
place. The ones with major strength direction will be placed as longitudinal planks, and the
ones with minor strength direction as transverse planks.
Figure 52.

3-Lumber/layers cutting and surfacing:

A machine equipped with the most advanced
CNC technology (Computer Numerical Control)
will remove a thin layer from all four sides of the
lumbers, which will help to ensure an optimal
gluing, and will cut the lumbers with accuracy.
TITEL 22

4-Adhesive application:
Lumbers are put together correctly forming a
continuous layer. Then a machine with some
extruders push out some threads of solvent-
free and formaldehyde-free PUR adhesive.
The threads of adhesive are thrown on top of
the lumber, which are already placed
together, in a weaving side-to-side movement.
Figure 53.
5-CLT Panel lay-up:
After being sprayed with the adhesive, another group of lumbers put together forming a
continuous layer, but this time in the opposite orthogonal direction is placed on top of the
previous layer. The process will be repeated until there is 3, 5, 7 or more layers depending
on static requirements.

6-Assembly pressing:
The time between when the adhesive is applied and when the pressure to the layers is done,
the proper pressing time should be essentially monitored in terms of ambient temperature
and air humidity, in order to not affect the CLT performance. After the process a test is
carried out as part of the product qualification.

7-Machining and cutting:

After testing the performance of the CLT
panels, they are transported to a section in
the industrial bay where a machine
controlled with a computer program cuts the
openings for doors and windows, slots and
holes for connections and lifting causes.
Figure 54. Figure 55.
8-Packaging and transportation: Figure 56.

After cutting the last openings, the CLT

solid wood panels are ready to check
over, pack and deliver the product via
truck transporting to the private client.
In order to ensure an optimal assembly sequence of CLT, a setup sequence has to be
determined. A loading sequence is defined for the means of transport.
TITEL 23

2.3 CONNECTIONS IN CLT BUILDINGS (KLH).

There are two common structural systems to design and construct CLT buildings with.
Platform construction and Balloon construction.
• Platform construction: walls lay between floors. The floor panels rest on top of the wall
panels. This simplifies the erection of upper storeys and imply simple connection systems.
It’s probably the most used structural system in Europe for CLT assemblies.
• Balloon construction: walls continue some storeys up with intermediate floor assemblies
attached to the walls. High buildings with several storeys cannot use this system due to the
limitations in the length of the CLT panels for example.

Figure 57: Figure 58:

Platform Balloon
Construction. Construction.

2.3.1 Details of the connections in CLT assemblies.

The simple axonometric drawing shows a common multi-storey CLT building, with its
ordinary connections, just as CLT wall panel’s connection, connection between walls and
foundations and walls, floors and roofs.
All of the details shown in this subsection are extracted from the official documents of KLH
(www.klh.at).
There are many solutions for the marked encounters in the drawing. For example in the way
of sealing. Sealing in the panels can be given by:
a) A heat trap fitting, in a permeable material (air
tight layer), adjusted to the wall structure.
b) Sealing strips if no vapour retarder or heat trap fit
ting is installed.
Only most common and used solutions for
executing these encounters are shown in the
following pages in specific details.

Figure 59.
TITEL 24

Detail number 1: Exterior/interior wall - concrete connection:

Figure 60: Axonometric view of a wall-concrete encounter. Extract from www.klh.at.

Detail number 2: Exterior wall – interior wall – ceiling connection:

Figure 61: Axonometric view of an exterior wall-interior wall-ceiling encounter. Extract from www.klh.at.
TITEL 25

Detail number 3: Exterior walls - ceiling connection:

Figure 62: Axonometric view of an exterior wall-exterior wall-ceiling encounter. Extract from www.klh.at.

Detail number 4: Exterior walls - roof connection:

Figure 63: Axonometric view of an exterior wall-roof encounter. Extract from www.klh.at.
TITEL 26

Detail number 5: Roof - roof connection:

Figure 64: Axonometric view of an exterior roof-roof encounter. Extract from www.klh.at.

Detail number 6: Ceiling – ceiling connection:

Figure 65: Axonometric view of a ceiling - ceiling encounter. Extract from www.klh.at.
TITEL 27

2.4 BUILDING ENCLOSURE FOR CLT ASSEMBLIES.

Building enclosure has the most important role in terms of the energy performance, durability
of the structure, air quality and comfort. To accomplish these requirements, the prevention of
water intrusion, the control of the heat flow, air flow and moisture flow is basic.
Panels situated between the exterior and interior such as exterior walls and roofs, separate
two environments. These panels must deal with rough weather, sudden change in
temperature, solar radiation, humidity, etc. As any other system or material, these solid wood
panels and their assembly areas have to be prepared for water and air infiltration and vapor
movements. These can cause moisture problems, which no building wants.

2.4.1 Air tightness.

Building envelopes must be made permanently airtight and windproof. The tightness of the
CLT construction depends more on the connection joints to other construction components
and panel joints, rather than panel themselves.
The air tightness of a construction component or an entire building is a measurable unit (air
change rate). It indicates the quantity of air per hour [m3/h] flowing between the inside and
outside of a construction component or building at a particular defined pressure difference.
A bad design or execution of an envelope which permits the air flow through the joints of the
panels will make the building envelope excessively permeable and will unprotect the noise
protection and lose excessive heat as well.

There are offered two flow-tight connection options for giving airtightness:
• Wrapping and sealing the whole building with a membrane, usually a textile fabric (air tight
layer) by way of a convection barrier. The membrane is adjusted to the wall structure. This
way of giving airtightness needs no sealing tapes.

Figure 66:
Airtightness given to
an encounter through
wrapping and sealing
with a convection
barrier. Extract from
www.klh.at.
TITEL 28

• Using pre-compressed sealing tapes. When no vapour retarder or convection barrier is

positioned outside, sealing tapes will seal the building connections.

Figure 67: Airtightness given to an encounter by way of sealing tapes. Extract from www.klh.at.

2.4.2 Protection against moisture.

Any construction material should not transport moisture. Wood is no exception. CLT panels
must prevent the vapour diffusion, the absorption of humidity and capillarity in surfaces.
Wood is an anisotropic material with hygroscopic properties. This factor and the crosswise
arrangement of the layers and the high-quality gluing during the production of the solid wood
panels, makes the swelling and shrinkage of the wood in relation to moisture limited.
In wet rooms, joints are the critical elements. This problem can only be solved by means of
elastic, permanently flexible connections. Elastic sealing joints are also necessary for impact
sound insulation with side walls.
Figure 68: At critical and inaccessible points such as shower trays or
bathtubs, or in areas with strong splash water exposure (sink in the
kitchen or shower in the bathroom), the sealing should be made by
sealing at walls and
floors.



Figure 69: In the rest of
the wet room, sealing should be made by sealing floors around
the walls. With gypsum plasterboard is enough for the walls.
TITEL 29

2.4.3 Heat insulation.

When cold temperatures attack the building, the objective of the building is to fight back
somehow and create comfort temperatures which levels of comfort demand.
Three ways can be used to create temperatures that ensure a high level of comfort:
• Decrease the transmission losses. No heat transfer through components.
• Add thermal energy from outside. Using the solar energy from the rays of sunshine which
enter through windows.
• Add thermal energy from inside. Using heating energy or energy consumption from home.

2.5 SOUND INSULATION IN CLT ASSEMBLIES.

This chapter explains several general matters related to sound in CLT buildings, e.g., the
definition of the sound, its sources, acceptable levels of sound, sound vs. noise, etc.

Definition:
Sound is a physical disturbance in an elastic medium (gas, liquid or solid) which is capable of
being detected by the human ear.
Human introduces inside buildings constant sound, such as talking, playing instruments,
music, TV/radio, walking, playing, etc.

Airborne and impact sound:

Sound insulation in buildings distinguish between airborne and impact sound.These two
ways which a sound can be transmitted from room to room, are shown very clearly in the
following pictures. In ‘Fig. 70’, sound is transmitted via airborne sound. In ‘Fig.71’, sound is
transmitted via impact sound.

Figure 70. Figure 71.

TITEL 30

To measure the airborne sound the Octahedron speaker is used. A structure of two rooms is
construct to test the airborne sound in the facilities of KLH. There is a structure which has
one room on top of the other (to test the ceilings), and one room beside another (to test the
walls).
Regardless, Octahedron speaker
transmits sound vertically, horizontally
and also diagonally in one room. In the
room on the other side of the KLH solid
wood panel, some receptor machine
tests the intensity of the airborne
sound.

Figure 72 and Figure 73: An Octahedron speaker is positioned

inside the room and transmits sound in all
directions.

To measure the impact sound, an

impact machine is used. The intensity
of the impact sound levels can be
adjusted. The same structure of two
rooms which is construct to test the
airborne sound in the facilities of KLH,
is also used for the impact sound test.
Figure 74 and Figure 75: An impact machine is positioned inside
the room and transmits impact sound which will be measured in
the room on the other side.

When measuring airborne sound transmission and impact sound levels, there are important
factors which will influence the capacity of insulation of the panels:

• Weight of the construction component per m2.

• Internal damping of the component.
• Leaf distance in case of multi-leaf structures.
• Dynamic rigidity of the separation layer in case of multi-leaf structures (e.g. impact sound
insulation between screed and KLH solid wood panel).
• Flexibility as defined in building acoustics.
• Minimization of sound transmission through contact surfaces and fixing elements.
TITEL 31

2.6 FIRE PERFORMANCE IN CLT ASSEMBLIES.

All of the CLT panels and further CLT constructions are proofed to be prepared to stand a
fire. Proof has to be provided for the load-bearing capacity of each component in case of a
fire in the form of a static calculation.
Multi-layer KLH solid wood panels also allow the construction of components with high fire-
resistance ratings, and proof can be provided for R90 or R120.
5-layer ceiling panels already reach R60 without any additional measures or even R90 if the
panel thickness is sufficient, making visible-grain constructions with high fire resistance easy
to realize.
For wall components, the required fire resistance is usually achieved with panel layers, since,
for example, with 3-layer KLH wall panels you can merely reach a maximum fire resistance
rating of R30.

2.7 LIFTING AND HANDLING.

There are several techniques for handling and lifting CLT panels. The difference on the
nature of the building or location normally in many cases impose the system that’s going to
be used. As it is easy to imagine, a 5 o 10 storey building in a city will not use the same
system and will have much more preparation and precaution than a detached house in a
village.
In some systems holes are normally used to fix the plates or bands. It is always better to seal
the holes to ensure airtightness and to stop the relative expansion of sound, smoke or fire.

Contact lifting systems:

These are some lifting systems which use steel plates which provide compressive resistance
on the lower face of the panels. It’s a very safe system although there has to be tactful when
removing the steel plates from the panels.

Figure 76. Figure 77. Figure 78.

TITEL 32

Screw hoist systems:

These are some lifting systems which depend only on fasteners. It’s a very simple and
effective system although there has to control when designing the placing them over the
panel. 

Figure 79.
Figure 80. Figure 81.
Integrated lifting systems:
These are some lifting systems which depend only on fasteners. It’s a very simple and
effective system although there has to control when designing the placing them over the
panel.

Figure 82.
Unloading and storage:
KLH panels are usually lifted with the soft lifting slings system without support for horizontal
and vertical elements. The lifting sling is inserted into a hole and pull put from a second hole.
A maximum distance between the slings is 6 meters and the angle of the lifting mechanism
between 45º and 60º.
Figure 83 and figure 84:
The wall is lifted from
the horizontal position,
and pulled in a direction
of 110º more or less.

Vertical and horizontal elements installation:

KLH panels (horizontal and vertical) are correctly positioned
and a temporary support helps the wall or roof or ceiling to
stabilize before the lifting slings are undone and moved away.
Screw fixings are also fixed to stabilize more the process of
assembly.
Figure 85: Supports are temporary
positioned to help in the assembly.
TITEL 33

3 DOCUMENTATION OF CLT BUILDINGS.

INTRODUCTION

In this chapter, two projects of two single-family houses are shown. The basic plans of the
house are designed by two different architects, which designed these houses with CLT
panels. The work that’s shown in the next pages is the design of the proper houses designed
from a particular point of view, using KLH solid wood panels. The final decision is conditioned
by this specific panels.
Next two pages introduce the houses with some explanation about them, the purpose of the
construction, some characteristics which are worth to comment, etc.
Then all the floor plans, sections, details and component connections, blueprints in general,
are shown after the brief explanations of the house.
TITEL 34

3.1 HOUSE C: “CERNY”.

This existent single-family house is

designed by “SBA Architekt DI Oliver
Seindl”. The clear separation between
living and working areas of this house is
reflected in the refined combination of
two architecturally sophisticated building
complexes.

Figure 86: Exterior view of the living and work house.

This construction is composed of a single-storey flat-roofed residential building with a

rectangular plan and a two storey “office tower”.

Figure 87: Exterior view of the terrace in the south façade.

There are generous glass surfaces in all south façades which gives clear light during all the
day. There is also facing to the south a wooden terrace upstairs in the second floor of the
office building and a four doors open façade in the south façade in the residential building
which connects the inside with the garden.
TITEL 35

3.2 HOUSE P: “PYRAMIDES IN ALMERE”.

The pyramids are designed by the architect

group “ArchitecteCentrale” in the Netherlands.
The pyramids are designed with the same size
ratio as the Great Pyramids of Cheops at
Gizeh. The small one is ¾th of the big one.
The distance between the pyramids in the
floorplan is chosen as a numeric sequence 12-
7-9, which gives a difference of 2-3-5, all
primary numbers.
Figure 88: Exterior view of the two pyramids.
The large pyramid has a recess which is used as a bedroom. The small pyramid is a silence
and meditation pyramid. The pyramids are privately owned and for private use.

The choice for massive wood was made because of

the big and complicated windows. In a previous
design the pyramid was constructed as a traditional
roof: beams and planks.
This however, although beautiful, would entail a lot
of beams with sawed off ends under different
angles.

Figure 89: One of the pyramids in construction. CLT panels

where used in the design of the existing pyramid house.
Both pyramids wear two symbols as windows.
The origin of the symbol is in India. The
circular symbol has symbolizes the four
forces of Wisdom, Creation, Love and
Perfection.
The "star" symbol represents the upward
triangle human aspiration and the descending
triangle the answer to that aspiration. The
square that make two triangles symbolizing
the new man with the lotus on the water are
proposing new consciousness.
Figure 90: View of the star window from the inside.